While the spotlight is undoubtedly set on MVP contenders Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic, both Canada and Slovenia boast of more strengths as they aim to advance to the FIBA Basketball World Cup Semi-Finals, a feat neither team has achieved before.
For supporters tuning in, the game commences at 9:30 a.m. ET/6:30 a.m. PT for Canadian enthusiasts, 14:30 CET for Slovenian fans, and 20:30 local Philippine time at the renowned Mall of Asia Arena.
Main Showdown: In the past NBA season, the two giants clashed twice. To put things into perspective, if we revealed that Luka Doncic’s stats of 31 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists was potentially the lesser of their showdowns, it speaks volumes about their caliber. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander racked up an average of 40.0 points, 6.0 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.5 steals in two matches against Dallas Mavericks. In contrast, Luka Doncic managed 34.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, 9.0 assists, and successfully netted 24 of his 29 free throw attempts when facing Oklahoma City Thunder. Collectively, they hold an even 4-4 record against each other in their NBA journeys. Currently, in this World Cup, Doncic boasts 26.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists, while Gilgeous-Alexander registers 23.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists.
Decisive Players: While expectations run high for the stalwarts, the intrigue lies in which supporting player will make that game-changing play, sprint, or vital rebound. For Canada, Dillon Brooks’ exceptional final quarter versus Spain serves as testament, amplified by the sheer camaraderie and joy his peers exhibit when he scores.
Slovenia might look to Klemen Prepelic to fill that role. Notably consistent in scoring double digits throughout the games, Prepelic’s assist skills often fly under the radar, as evidenced by his 7 assists within 24 minutes against Cape Verde during the Group Stage.
By the Numbers: Slovenia excels in two-pointers, recording the third-highest percentage at 65.2% this World Cup. Canada, on the other hand, shines from beyond the arc, holding a third-place spot with a three-point percentage of 40.3 after their initial five matches. If either team can mimic the other’s strength, their odds of emerging victoriously increase exponentially.
Historical Clashes: In FIBA’s records, Canada and Slovenia have faced off only once, during the 2008 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens. Although Slovenia triumphed 86-70, neither made it to the Olympics, falling short behind Greece, Croatia, and Germany. In additional friendly matches, Slovenia maintained their dominance, winning all encounters, resulting in a flawless 4-0 record against Canada.
Coaches Weigh In: Aleksander Sekulic, Slovenia’s head coach, opines, “The upcoming match against Canada promises to be captivating. Throughout the Group Stage, Canada’s prowess was evident, and we’re dedicating time to study them thoroughly. As the Quarter-Finals begin, it’s a fresh start for the top eight. Anticipation is building for the concluding games in Manila.”
Echoing the competitive spirit, Jordi Fernandez, the head coach for Canada, remarks, “Participating in the Olympics is indeed an honor. This achievement, especially since August 1, is commendable. But our eyes are set beyond; three crucial matches await us in the World Cup. Our ambition is not limited to the Olympics. We are here to make a statement, to ensure our determination and thirst for success is palpable to all.”
